The Dalton Police Department would like to remind motorist to prepare their motor vehicles before inclement weather hits the Dalton area. There are several important things that need to be checked on your vehicles and several things that should be carried in your vehicles in case you become stranded.
The following is a quick checklist of things that should be checked to ensure they are in good operating condition on your vehicles before cold weather hits.
- Have the car battery tested.
- Have the antifreeze level and effectiveness at sub-freezing temperatures checked.
- Make sure the windshield wipers are in good condition.
- Check the windshield washer fluid and fill if needed with windshield washer fluid (not water).
- Make sure all lights are working correctly, including flashing hazard lights.
- Have the brakes inspected.
- Have the tire tread checked.
- Make sure the inside heater and defrost is in proper working condition.
Motorists should also keep the following items in their vehicles when traveling in inclement weather, not matter how short a distance they may be traveling.
- Flashlight/extra batteries
- Blanket
- Extra cap and gloves/mittens
- Rain Gear
- Small tool kit and booster cables
- Small bag of kitty litter
- Bottled water and snack foods/power bars
- Brightly colored cloth
The Dalton Police Department would also like to remind motorists of some driving tips during inclement weather. During inclement weather motorists should limit travel to essential travel only. Leave early and expect there to be driving delays and avoid lightly traveled roads. Motorist should slow down on wet or slick roads due to rain and snow, driving much slower than the posted speed limit. Avoid quick accelerations, hard braking and quick turns or lane changes.
If you become stranded, you should stay with your vehicle as long as possible. During the day, you can hang a bright colored rag or cloth on the antenna of your car and at night turn the flashing hazard lights on to signal that you are in distress. If possible, run the engine and heat for short periods of time to provide warmth.
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